Pat Shay, a University of California Master Gardener of Merced County, shared gardening tips and reminders for the month of May in an article released on May 1. Shay said that warmer temperatures signal the time to start planting and preparing gardens for the growing season.
The guidance comes as gardeners look forward to putting plans into action after months of preparation. Shay emphasized mulching in anticipation of higher temperatures, deadheading roses to encourage blooms, managing pests such as aphids with water sprays or lady beetles, and balancing compost materials.
Shay wrote, “Begin to apply mulch in preparation for warmer weather ahead….and to limit growth of weeds, being careful not to get the mulch right up to the base of the plant (leave three or four inches of bare ground around the base). Dead head roses to keep blooms coming. Using sharp clippers, make a 45 degree cut just above a five leaf, outward growing sprout.” Additional advice included releasing lady beetles early in the morning after refrigeration if more are needed than naturally occur in gardens.
University of California Agriculture and Natural Resources secures funding through public contributions to support its programs according to its official website. The organization promotes sustainable practices aimed at strengthening resilient ecosystems and economic vitality according to its official website. It utilizes nine research and extension centers as laboratories representing California’s diverse ecosystems according to its official website.
University of California Agriculture and Natural Resources has gained recognition for trusted services linking research with community needs according to its official website. As part of the University of California system, it manages Cooperative Extension services according to its official website, conducting over 33,800 educational events annually and engaging more than 18,400 volunteers in various initiatives according to its official website.
As local gardeners move into summer planting season following these recommendations from Shay and UC experts, many will rely on resources provided by University of California Agriculture and Natural Resources for continued support throughout the year.